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Individual press releases for the 2011 Grid Master winners

Posted October 25, 2011

Note to Editors:

The following producers and feeders were awarded 2011 Grid Master Awards. Complete press releases are available on each of the following. Click on the producers name to move to that press release. Individual photos are available as indicated.


  • Anderson Land & Cattle Co. of Oberlin, Kan.; Feedyard: Anderson Land & Cattle Co. of Oberlin, Kan.
  • Bill Blauw of Strausburg, Colo.; Feedyard: Yankton Land and Cattle Co. of Yankton, S.D.
  • Bull Hill Ranch of Gray Court, S.C.; Feedyard: Ranger Feeders of Dighton, Kan. (Photo of Prescott, Bull HIll Ranch, available)
  • Christensen Bros. of Weldona, Colo.; Feedyard: Christensen Bros. of Weldona, Colo.
  • Croissant Red Angus of Briggsdale, Colo.; Feedyard: Croissant Red Angus of Briggsdale, Colo. (Photo of Millers, Croissant Red Angus, available)
  • DeLong Ranches of Winnemucca, Nev.; Feedyard: Kuenning & Son, Inc. of Imperial, Neb.
  • DeLong Ranches of Winnemucca, Nev.; Feeder: Frank Wedel of Leoti, Kan.; Feedyard: Decatur County Feed Yard of Oberlin, Kan. (Photo of Wedels available)
  • Durheim Ranch of Ellendale, N.D.; Feedyard: Dana Dennert of Columbia, S.D. (Photo of Durheims available)
  • Robert Gibbs of Jordan, Mont.; Feedyard: Circle G Farms of Waco, Neb.
  • Robert Gibbs of Jordan, Mont.; Anthony Ranch of Jal, N.M.; Chip Fischer of Rhame, N.D.; Feedyard: Circle G of Waco, Neb.
  • H&F Heifer Developement of Abilene, Kan.; Feedyard: Royal Beef of Scott City, Kan.
  • Heart River Ranch of Belfield, N.D.; Feedyard: Century Feeders of Goodland, Kan. (Photo of Steffans, Heart River Ranch, available)
  • Kerry Holscher of Waubay, S.D.; Feedyard: Brent Thompson of Elkhorn, S.D.
  • Mike Kokesch of Stewart, Minn.; Feedyard: Mike Kokesch of Stewart, Minn.
  • John Lancaster of Glendo, Wyo.; Feedyard: Magnum Feeders of Wiggins, Colo.
  • Leland Cattle Co. (Butch Grandy) of Farson, Wyo.; Feedyard: Royal Beef of Scott City, Kan.
  • Joe Lindsey of Byers, Colo.; Feedyard: Kuenning & Son Inc. of Imperial, Neb.
  • Lorenzen Ranches of Pendleton, Ore.; Feedyard: Beef North West of North Powder, Ore.
  • Meyer Company Ranch of Helmville, Mont.; Feedyard: HBF of Haxton, Colo.
  • Veril & Barbara Nelson of Oakland, Ore.; Feedyard: Simplot Feeders Limited of Pasco, Wash.
  • Pelton Red Angus of Burdett, Kan.; Feedyard: High Choice Feeders of Scott City, Kan. (Photo of Peltons available)
  • Ranches, Inc. (Brian Downey) of Fort Morgan, Colo.; Feedyard: Kuenning & Son, Inc. of Imperial, Neb.
  • Sargent Cattle Co. of San Ardo, Calif.; Feedyard: Kuenning & Son, Inc. of Imperial, Neb.
  • Skinner Ranches of Jordan Valley, Ore.; Feedyard: Kuenning & Son, Inc. of Imperial, Neb.
  • Spreutels Farm of Koshkonong, Mo.; Feedyard: Spreutels Farm of Koshkonong, Mo. (Photo of Spreutels available)
  • Yancy Sowers of Oberlin, Kan.; Feedyard: Anderson Land & Cattle Co. of Oberlin, Kan.
  • Leon Tuttle of Gove, Kan.; Feedyard: Century Feeders of Goodland, Kan. (Photo of Short, Century Feeders, available)
  • Michael Wasson of Dresden, Kan.; Feedyard: Prairie Dog Creek Cattle Co. of Dresden, Kan.

Anderson Wins Grid Master Award

Anderson Land and Cattle Co. of Oberlin, Kan., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Anderson Land and Cattle Co. fed the cattle themselves and harvested them on the GeneNet JBS grid. The three combined lots of 127 head included a lot raised by Yancy Sowers, also of Oberlin. The cattle graded 93 percent Choice with 69.3 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 0.8 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Both sets of Anderson’s cattle had no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 114.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award. Anderson Land and Cattle Co. have earned six Grid Master Awards the past two years.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Blauw wins Grid Master Award

Bill Blauw of Strasburg, Colo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Blauw fed his cattle at Yankton Land and Cattle Co. of Yankton, S.D., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. His load lot of 45 head graded 95.6 percent Choice with 40 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcasses. Grid score: 206.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Bull Hill Ranch wins Grid Master Award

(Photo Available)

Bull Hill Ranch of Gray Court. S. C., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Bull Hill Ranch fed their cattle at Ranger Feeders of Dighton, Kan., and harvested them on the U.S. Premium Beef grid. The lot of 54 head graded 85 percent Choice with 70 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. This is the first Grid Master Award on cattle from the eastern seaboard. Grid score: 112.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


Christiansen Brothers win Grid Master Award

Christiansen Brothers of Weldona, Colo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Christiansen Brothers fed their four award-winning lots themselves and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. Their combined lots of 234 head graded 94.8 percent Choice with 79.2 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.1 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. One set of cattle had no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 140.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award. Christiansen Brothers have earned eight Grid Master Awards the past two years.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


Croissant Red Angus wins Grid Master Award

(Photo Available)

Croissant Red Angus of Briggsdale, Colo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Croissant Red Angus fed two load lots themselves and harvested them on the JBS USA grid. The two combined lots of 74 head graded 91.5 percent Choice with 42.8 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 3.9 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 110.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award. This marks four Grid Master Awards for Croissant Red Angus.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


DeLong Ranches win Grid Master Award

(Photo of Wedels Available)

DeLong Ranches of Winnemucca, Nev., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

DeLongs fed two load lots at Kuenning and Son, Inc. in Imperial, Neb., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. Their two combined lots of 80 head graded 94.9 percent Choice with 48.6 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 1.3 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. One set of cattle had no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 115.

Wedel Red Angus of Leoti, Kan., purchased a third set of DeLong cattle and fed them at Decatur County Feed Yard in Oberlin, Kan. They harvested on the Cargill grid. Forty-eight head averaged 95.4 percent Choice, 60 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2, and no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid Score: 107. This was the first Grid Master Award for Decatur County Feed Yard.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


Durheim Ranch wins Grid Master Award

(Photo Available)

Durheim Ranch of Ellendale, N.D., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Durheims fed their cattle at Dana Dennert’s feedlot near Columbia, S.D., and harvested them on the JBS USA grid. The lot of 43 head graded 96 percent Choice with 51 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 4.0 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 114.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award, and Durheims have earned Grid Master status seven of those years.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


Gibbs, Anthony Ranch and Fischer win Grid Master Award

Three producers joined forces to win the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Robert Gibbs of Jordan, Mont., Anthony Ranch of Jal, N.M., and Chip Fischer of Rhame, N.D., fed their joint load lot at Circle G Farms of Waco, Neb., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. The lot of 40 head graded 92.5 percent Choice with 60 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 5 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 108.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


Gibbs earns Grid Master Award

Robert Gibbs of Jordan, Mont., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Gibbs fed his natural lots at Circle G Farms in Waco, Neb., and harvested them at on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. Two load lots of 120 head graded 96.4 percent Choice with 48.4 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcasses. Grid score: 131.

Gibbs also owned a lot load of 40 head with Anthony Ranch of Jal, N.M., and Chip Fischer of Rhame, N.D. The load was also naturally fed at Circle G Farms and marketed on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. They averaged 92.5 percent Choice with 60 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcasses. Grid score: 108.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top


H & F Heifer Development wins Grid Master Award

H & F Heifer Development of Abilene, Kan., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

H & F Heifer Development fed a load lot at Royal Beef of Scott City, Kan., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. The lot of 34 head graded 97.1 percent Choice with 61.8 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.9 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 103.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Heart River Ranch wins Grid Master Award

(Photo Available)

Heart River Ranch of Belfield, N.D., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Heart River Ranch fed their cattle at Century Feeders of Goodland, Kan., and harvested them on the U.S. Premium Beef grid. The lot of 68 head graded 97.1 percent Choice with 62.5 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 1.3 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 104.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award. Century Feeders has earned 20 Grid Master Awards.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Holscher earns Grid Master title

Kerry Holscher of Waubay, S.D., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Holscher fed his natural lot at Brent Thompson feedlot near Elkhorn, S.D., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. His load lot of 88 head graded 98.9 percent Choice with 31.2 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcasses. Grid score: 148.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Kokesch wins Grid Master Award

Mike Kokesch of Stewart, Minn., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Koshesch fed his natural cattle in his own feedlot and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. His combined two load lots of 93 head graded 94.5 percent Choice with 43 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 3.3 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 115.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Lancaster wins Grid Master Award

John Lancaster of Glendo, Wyo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Lancaster fed two load lots at Magnum Feeders in Wiggins, Colo., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. His combined lots of 80 head graded 90 percent Choice with 46.3 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.5 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. One load had no Yield Grade 4s. Grid score: 103.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Leland Cattle Co. wins Grid Master Award

Butch Grandy of Leland Cattle Co., Farson, Wyo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Leland Cattle Co. fed two load lots at Royal Beef of Scott City, Kan., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. The two combined lots of 165 head graded 95.1 percent Choice with 51.8 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 3.6 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. One set of cattle had no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 126.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Lindsey earns Grid Master Award

Joe Lindsey of Byers, Colo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) presented a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15–16.

Lindsey fed his natural lot of cattle at Kuenning & Sons, Inc. in Imperial, Neb., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. Their load lot of 38 head graded 92 percent Choice with 63 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 151.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Lorenzen Ranches wins Grid Master Award

Lorenzen Ranches of Pendleton, Ore., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Lorenzen Ranches fed three load lots at Beef North West of North Powder, Ore., and harvested two lots on the Tyson grid and the third on the Painted Hills grid. The three combined lots of 118 head graded 97.7 percent Choice with 63.7 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.6 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. One of the lots graded a remarkable 100 percent Choice with no Yield Grade 4 carcasses, and another lot graded 100 Choice. Grid score: 129.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award. Both Lorenzen Ranches and Beef North West have earned seven Grid Master Awards.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Meyer Co. Ranch earns Grid Master Award with record numbers

Meyer Company Ranch of Helmville, Mont., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Meyer Company Ranch fed their natural cattle at HBF Feedlot in Haxton, Colo., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. This is the first year Meyer Company Ranch has won the Grid Master Award and, with 535 head, broke a new record for the most cattle from one ranch.

Their combined four load lots graded 94.6 percent Choice with 50.5 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.2 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 108.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Nelsons win Grid Master Award

Veril and Barbara Nelson of Oakland, Ore., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Nelsons fed their cattle at Simplot Feeders Limited of Pasco, Wash., and harvested them on the Tyson grid. Their lot of 33 head graded 91 percent Choice with 72 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcasses. Grid score: 126.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Pelton Red Angus wins Grid Master Award

(Photo Available)

Pelton Red Angus, Burdett, Kan., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Peltons fed their cattle at High Choice Feeders, Scott City, Kan., and harvested them on the U.S. Premium Beef grid. Their load lot of 34 head graded 85 percent Choice with 68.5 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 3 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 103.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Ranches, Inc. wins Grid Master Award

Brian Downey of Ranches, Inc., Fort Morgan, Colo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Ranches, Inc. fed two load lots at Kuenning and Son, Inc., at Imperial, Neb., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. The two combined lots of 77 head graded 97.4 percent Choice with 49.5 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 carcasses. Grid score: 121.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Sargent Cattle Co. wins Grid Master Award

Sargent Cattle Co. of San Ardo, Calif., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Sargent Cattle Co. fed their cattle at Kuenning and Sons, Inc., of Imperial, Neb., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. The lot of 40 head graded a remarkable 100 percent Choice with 62.4 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and 5 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 122.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Skinner Ranches win Grid Master Award

Skinner Ranches of Jordan Valley, Ore., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Skinner Ranches fed their natural cattle at Kuenning and Son, Inc. of Imperial, Neb., and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. Their two combined load lots of 99 head graded a remarkable 100 percent Choice with 38.9 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 5.9 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 115.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award, and Skinner Ranches has earned nine awards in that time period.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Sowers wins Grid Master Award

Yancy Sowers of Oberlin, Kan., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Sowers fed his cattle at Anderson Land & Cattle Co. and harvested them on the GeneNet JBS grid. The lot of 44 head graded 95.5 percent Choice with 65.9 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.3 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 129.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Spreutels Farm wins Grid Master Award

(Photo Available)

Spreutels Farm of Koshkonong, Mo., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Spreutels Farm fed their own load lots and harvested them on the Meyer Natural Angus grid. The lots of 31 head graded 96.8 percent Choice with 77.4 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 3.2 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 124.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Tuttle wins Grid Master Award

(Photo of Dick Short, Century Feeders, Available)

Leon Tuttle of Gove, Kan., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Tuttle fed his cattle at Century Feeders of Goodland, Kan. and harvested them on the U.S. Premium Beef grid. His lot of 35 head graded 95 percent Choice with 45 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and no Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 103.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award. Century Feeders has earned 20 Grid Master Awards.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

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Wasson wins Grid Master Award

Michael Wasson of Dresden, Kan., won the prestigious Grid Master Award for raising and feeding Red Angus cattle that meet and exceed strict carcass quality specifications. The Red Angus Association of America (RAAA) awarded a record-setting 47 Grid Master Awards to Red Angus breeders and feedlots at the RAAA’s national convention in Durham, N.C., Sept. 15 – 16.

Wasson fed his three load lots at Prairie Dog Creek Cattle Co., also of Dresden, Kan., and harvested them on the U.S. Premium Beef grid. His three combined lots of 112 head graded 98.3 percent Choice with two of the lots grading a remarkable 100 percent Choice. The combined lots had 61.4 percent Yield Grade 1 or 2 and only 2.6 percent Yield Grade 4 carcasses. Grid score: 116.

Red Angus ranches and feeders achieved a new level of excellence this year as an outstanding 64 loads of cattle – over 2,500 head – reached tremendous yield and quality combinations to earn Grid Master status. This is the largest number of Grid Masters ever awarded in the eight-year history of the award, and Prairie Dog Creek Cattle Co. has earned five Grid Masters in the past two years.

“The RAAA presented a challenge to breeders, commercial ranches and feed yards to harvest Red Angus cattle at tighter quality and yield specifications than ever before,” said RAAA Director of Value Added Programs Myron Edelman. “Not only did Red Angus producers hit a more difficult target, they exceeded the Grid Master record for the third consecutive year.”

In order to achieve Grid Master status, Red Angus or Red Angus-influenced cattle enrolled in the Red Angus Feeder Calf Certification Program (FCCP) must achieve a specified level of carcass excellence. Both conventional- and natural-fed cattle are eligible for Grid Master consideration.

Conventional-fed cattle must meet the following requirements:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 85 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 5 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

To account for the different finishing characteristics of natural-fed cattle, they must meet the following criteria:

  • Minimum of 30-head lot size
  • Minimum 90 percent Choice or higher
  • Maximum 10 percent Yield Grade 4
  • Minimum Grid Score of 100

All four major packers – U.S. Premium Beef, JBS USA, Tyson and Cargill  –harvested Red Angus Grid Master qualifiers in 10 different plant locations. Myer Natural Angus reported the largest number of Grid Master winners with 30 lots, and the Painted Hills Natural Program also harvested award-winning Red Angus cattle.

“Challenging those who produce and feed Red Angus cattle has proven to only make them rise to the level of the task,” said Edelman. “This has strengthened the value of Red Angus by building reputations of cattle that we know have proven maternal traits, the ability to efficiently convert feed and produce a valuable end product.”

For more information about enrolling your cattle in the Feeder Calf Certification Program, contact the RAAA office at (940) 387-3502 or visit RedAngus.org.

Back to Top

###

For more information, contact:
Myron Edelman, director of value added programs
(307) 351-6032 • myron@redangus.org
Clint Berry, commercial marketing director
(417) 844-1009 • clint@redangus.org

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Bull Hill Ranch

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Raymond Prescott of Bull Hill Ranch, Gray Court, S.C., with the Grid Master Award.

 

Croissant Red Angus

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Sallie and Kevin Miller and their daughter Alisa of Croissant Red Angus, Briggsdale, Colo., with the Grid Master Award.

 

Wedel Red Angus

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Susan and Frank Wedel of Wedel Red Angus, Leoti, Kan., with the Grid Master Award.

 

Durheim Ranch

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Lynette and Bruce Durheim of Ellendale, N.D., with the Grid Master Award.

Heart River Ranch

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Annette and Chuck Steffan of Belfield, N.D., and Dick Short of Century Feeders, Goodland, Kan., with Grid Master Awards.

Century Feeders

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Dick Short of Century Feeders, Goodland, Kan., with the Grid Master Award. Century Feeders has earned 20 Grid Masters during the eight-year history of the award.

Pelton Red Angus

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value-added programs, presented Sue and Lynn Pelton of Pelton Red Angus, Burdett, Kan., with the Grid Master Award.

Spreutels Farms

Myron Edelman (left), RAAA director of value added programs, presented Wilbur and Elsie Spreutels of Spreutels Farm, Koshkonong, Mo., with the Grid Master Award.